Crispy Cheese-Filled Pastries Recipe

Crispy cheese-filled pastries are a delicious, mouthwatering snack that combines a golden, flaky exterior with a gooey cheese filling. Perfect for appetizers, parties, or just a savory treat, these pastries are sure to be a hit. Our step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating these delectable snacks right in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create some irresistible crispy cheese-filled pastries!

History and Origin of Cheese-Filled Pastries

Cheese-filled pastries have a rich culinary history, with variations found in many cultures around the world. From the Middle Eastern sambousek to the Eastern European pierogi and the beloved Italian calzone, cheese-stuffed dough has been a global comfort food for centuries. The concept is simple yet ingenious: a soft or crispy dough encases a rich, cheesy filling, often enhanced with herbs, spices, or other ingredients. This recipe draws inspiration from these traditional forms, offering a straightforward, easy-to-make version that delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness you crave.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3.5 cups (390 g)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 g)
• Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted (35 g)
• Water: 1 cup (200 ml)

For the Filling:

• Cheese: 100 g (about 3.5 oz), grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or any melting cheese of your choice)

For Frying:

• Liquid Butter (or oil of choice for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir well to distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour.
2. Add Butter: Melt the butter and pour it into the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a spoon to mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water: Gradually add the water to the flour mixture while stirring continuously. Mix until a rough dough begins to form.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.

2. Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. Grate the Cheese: While the dough is resting, grate your choice of cheese and set it aside. You can use cheddar for a sharp flavor, mozzarella for a stretchy, melty experience, or a mix of both for a balanced taste.

3. Shape the Pastries

1. Divide the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into small, even pieces. You should aim for about 15-20 pieces, depending on how large or small you want your pastries.
2. Roll the Dough: Roll each piece into a small ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into a thin circle, approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.
3. Fill with Cheese: Place a small spoonful of the grated cheese filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make it difficult to seal the pastries properly.
4. Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the cheese to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal. For a decorative touch and extra sealing power, use a fork to crimp the edges of each pastry.

4. Fry the Pastries

1. Heat the Butter/Oil: In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat the liquid butter (or oil) over medium heat. You’ll know the butter is ready when a small piece of dough sizzles immediately upon contact.
2. Fry the Pastries: Carefully place the pastries into the hot butter in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each pastry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the pastries from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess butter or oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy cheese-filled pastries warm as a delightful snack or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips such as marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a simple yogurt and herb dip. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture!

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 pastry
• Servings Per Recipe: Approximately 20
• Calories: 140 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 0 g
• Protein: 4 g

These pastries are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while they’re still warm and the cheese is gooey. If you have any leftovers, they can be reheated in an oven or toaster oven to restore their crispiness.

Pro Tips:

• For an extra flavor boost, try adding chopped fresh herbs or a pinch of spice to the cheese filling.
• If you’re looking to make a lighter version, consider baking the pastries in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, instead of frying them.

These crispy cheese-filled pastries are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their golden exterior and molten cheese center make them irresistible. Happy cooking!